Have Gun Will Travel Season 2 Episode 11
The Plot of Have Gun Will Travel Season 2 Episode 11
Have Gun Will Travel is a Western drama series that ran on CBS from 1957 to 1963. The show starred Richard Boone as Paladin, a gunfighter who hired himself out as a protector of the innocent. In season 2, episode 11, titled "The Hanging of Roy Carter," Paladin is hired by a woman named Ellen Harrison to prove the innocence of her husband, Roy Carter, who has been sentenced to hang for a murder he didn't commit.
Paladin travels to the small town of Barkley, Arizona, where Roy was tried and convicted. He quickly discovers that the town is dominated by the local sheriff, Jim Trafton, and his corrupt deputy, Ben. Trafton has a personal vendetta against Roy, who used to be his deputy but quit when he discovered Trafton was involved in illegal activities.
Paladin convinces Trafton to let him see the evidence against Roy and discovers that it is all circumstantial. He also learns that Roy's alibi witness, a man named Jake, was intimidated into changing his story by Trafton and Ben. With the help of Ellen and Jake, Paladin sets out to prove Roy's innocence and bring the real killer to justice.
The Themes of Have Gun Will Travel Season 2 Episode 11
One of the underlying themes of Have Gun Will Travel Season 2 Episode 11 is the corrupting influence of power. Sheriff Trafton is willing to do whatever it takes to maintain his control over the town, even if it means framing an innocent man for murder. Paladin represents the opposite of this, using his power and influence to help those who cannot help themselves.
Another theme is the importance of justice. Paladin is not only trying to prove Roy's innocence, but he is also seeking to bring the real killer to justice. He believes that justice must be served, even if it means going up against those in power.
The Characters of Have Gun Will Travel Season 2 Episode 11
Richard Boone's portrayal of Paladin is one of the highlights of the series. He is a complex character, both tough and compassionate, who uses his intelligence and quick wit to outsmart his opponents. In this episode, he is joined by Ellen Harrison, played by actress Joanne Woodward, who brings a sense of vulnerability and determination to her role as Roy's wife.
Tom Tully gives a standout performance as Sheriff Trafton, portraying him as both menacing and desperate. The scenes between Tully and Boone are some of the best in the episode, as the two actors play off each other's strengths.
The Legacy of Have Gun Will Travel Season 2 Episode 11
Have Gun Will Travel was one of the most popular Westerns of its time, and it has remained a beloved classic for decades. The show's themes of honor, justice, and morality resonate with audiences today, as they did in the 1950s and 60s.
Richard Boone's performance as Paladin has become iconic, and his portrayal of the character has influenced countless other Western heroes in popular culture. The show's use of complex characters and morally ambiguous situations set it apart from other Western dramas of the time, and it has become a benchmark for the genre.
Conclusion
Have Gun Will Travel Season 2 Episode 11 is a classic example of the Western genre, with its themes of justice, honor, and morality. Richard Boone's performance as Paladin is memorable, and the supporting cast, including Joanne Woodward and Tom Tully, is excellent. This episode is a standout in a series that has become a beloved classic, and it continues to inspire and entertain audiences today.